The Kent Student Ambassadors (KSA) exemplify this motto through their commitment to educating students about philanthropy, giving back to the community and leading those around them.
Philanthropy is often associated with donating money to an important cause. However, the Ambassadors educate students that giving back involves so much more. Although donating money, often referred to as treasure, is a key component of philanthropy, both giving of one’s time and talent is equally impactful.
Volunteering allows students to become part of something greater than themselves. The Ambassadors share this message with students through on-campus tabling, educational presentations and hosting events during Flashes Give Back Week. They also emphasize the importance of saying thank you to those who support Kent State, such as donors and campus departments.
The Ambassadors organize various service projects throughout the academic year that impact both the Kent Campus and surrounding community. Their Super Service Event hosted in the spring of 2026 was the recipient of the 2025-2026 Community Impact Program of Year Award presented by the Center for Student Involvement. This event allowed for collaboration from four additional student organizations, in which more than 80 students completed five different service projects. The Ambassadors will host a similar event the week before Thanksgiving to provide students with an opportunity to give back during the Giving Tuesday season.
“Our community gets stronger when we ask what we can give instead of what we can take,” said Sonia Stamati, president of Kent State Ambassadors.
Giving back is not only a way to positively affect those you give to, but also to grow in both stewardship and friendship with those around you. The Ambassadors take this to heart as leaders on campus, inspiring other students to give of their time and talents, to express gratitude and to recognize that they, too, can truly make a difference.
